Pillar Technologies introduced solid state technology in capsealers and has been a leader in the industry for nearly 30 years. Following are answers to the most commonly asked questions about induction capsealing

What is Induction Capsealing?

Induction capsealing is a method of hermeticall sealing plastic and glass containers to provide tamper evidence, preserve freshness, deter pilferage and prevent leakage while providing product integrity.

How does it work?

In most applications, packagers purchase foil lined caps from a cap supplier. Cap styles of all varieties are available from these suppliers. The supplier will usually reccomend the most effective cap/ liner combination for your product. Although there are various liners to choose from, a typical induction liner is multi-layered. The top layer is a paper pulp which is usually spot glued to the cap. The next layer is wax which is used to bond the foil to the pulp. The bottom layer is a polymer film laminated to the foil.

The filling and capping operations remain unchanged. After capping, the container passes under an induction coil which emits a varying magnetic feild. As the container passes under the induction coil the conductive aluminum foil liner begins to heat. The heat melts the wax, which absorbs into the pulp backing and releases the foil from the cap. The polymer film also heats and flows onto the lip of the container. When cooled, the polymer creates a bond with the container resulting in a sealed product.

How fast can you seal?

Sealing speed is largely dependant on the diameter of the foil, the style of the cap, the speed of your conveyor, the capsealer power supply size, and the induction coil. By utilizing a 4kW power supply, we have acheived sealing rates of 300 feet per minute.

What problems are created by the polymer films intimate contact with the product?

In most cases, there are none. However, there are some products that prove almost impossible to seal in this method because of their reaction with the liner. As to degradation of the product itself, stability of shelf-life tests may be required in some instances to insure product integrity, particularly with some food and pharmacuetical products. Here again, the liner manufacturer can supply information on product compatibility.

Can you seal to glass?

Yes. By pre-treating glass containers you can acheive a sealed product. Untreated glass containers can be sealed if you are sealing non-liquid products. However, stability tests are recommended whenever using glass.

Why Seal?

There are several distinct advantages to induction sealing.

1. TAMPER EVIDENCE - DETER PILFERAGE

2. LEAK PREVENTION

3. INCREASED SHELF LIFE - PRODUCT FRESHNESS

Where any of the above conditions are preferred and/ of mandated, Pillar Technologies can supply an induction capsealer to fulfill the requirement. Qualified personel are always available at Pillar to answer an questions you have about induction sealing.

How much does a system cost?

System prices can start as low as $7000. Pricing depends largely on your individual application needs. Pillar makes the promise that to put together the most cost efficient system for their customers without compromising on quality.